Benefits of Planning Your Funeral While You’re Still Alive

By: Brian K. Daly

Thursday, January 14, 2016

Death is an inescapable fact. Eventually we will all pass away. By planning your funeral while you are still alive, you can ensure your memorial service goes exactly how you would want it to go and your family is not put in an uncomfortable situation by having to plan your funeral as they grieve your passing.

What Should I Plan in Advance?

Many options for your funeral can be decided in advance. Details such as who will officiate the funeral, who your pallbearers will be and who will present your eulogy, readings or poems can all be determined prior to your passing.

Other details that you can set out include the visitation or wake, what kind of service you have, the location of the service as well as the post service reception.

When laying out these plans you can also set what kind of flowers and decorations you want, what music is played and whether or not you would like guests to donate to a charity in your name.

Buying a burial plot and paying in advance for burial services will also save your loved ones much time, money and grief when you do pass away.

What are the Benefits of Planning Ahead?

Knowing that your funeral arrangements are taken care of can give you a sense of relief that your family will not have to deal with it when you’re gone. Planning a funeral and grieving at the same time is an unpleasant experience, so saving your family from that pain can be comforting.

For your family, having most of the expenses taken care of will also reduce stress as the financial aspect of the funeral is no longer an issue.

Knowing that the event would be taken care of exactly how you want it will give you piece of mind that there will be no hiccups on the day of the funeral and you will be laid to rest exactly the way you wanted to.

How Should I Communicate my Wishes?

By simply talking to your family you can easily relay your wishes and plans while making sure they know exactly what’s important to you. Writing your wishes in your will and keeping documentation and receipts for any payments you have made will also help your family or executor of your will when it comes time to plan your funeral.

There are also many online services that aid in planning a funeral while you are still alive. Website such as www.everplans.com will assist you in all aspects of funeral planning.

Be Prepared!

Death is a part of life; eventually it’s something we must all face. Making sure you are prepared for your funeral will make your passing much easier on your loved ones and will allow them to focus on celebrating your life rather than stressing about planning a funeral.